In order to gain a little more time to continue discussing the more complicated issues the Legislative Council must have time to consider draft legislation on the more urgent issues before
it rises for its Christmas recess. The Governor has therefore
announced that he will publish draft legislation today (10
December) for introduction on 15 December.
- Our objectives remain, as always, election arrangements which
are open, fair and acceptable to the people of Hong Kong. The test of acceptability is one which the Legislative Council will
have to make at the end of the day.
NEW AIRPORT
- All agree that Hong Kong needs a new airport if it is to
remain an important international trade and financial centre.
Hope that agreement on the overall financing arrangements can
be reached with the Chinese soon.
- In the meantime, we are maintaining momentum on the airport to
avoid expensive slippages and cost increases.
The project represents excellent value for money. Any substantial cost reduction would compromise the scope of the project and would not lead to the construction of the first rate
airport which Hong Kong needs.
ECONOMY
bullpts.PR.JRB
Economic fundamentals in Hong Kong remain very strong.